Updated 1/22/25
We continue to monitor the wildfires in the Los Angeles area and are in touch with those impacted by the fires, especially our own Pomona College community.
We’re relieved to report that Claremont has not been affected by the ongoing Southern California wildfires. Pomona’s campus is safe and operating normally. Claremont has experienced some moderate smoke, but air quality has not been seriously impacted. Accordingly, the Jan. 21 opening of spring semester moved forward in-person as planned and residence halls reopened as scheduled on Jan. 18.
For additional information, see the FAQ below for details related to wildfires, resources and returning to campus.
Wildfires
Is Pomona College’s campus in danger from the fires in the Los Angeles area?
Pomona’s campus in Claremont is currently safe, remains open and has been functioning normally during the wildfires.
How far is campus from the wildfires in Los Angeles?
The Eaton Fire in Altadena is the closest to the College and is approximately 30 miles away from the campus. The Pacific Palisades Fire is roughly 60 miles away.
Is the air quality in Claremont and on campus safe?
Thus far, air quality has not been seriously impacted. High winds could impact air quality and we continue to monitor the situation closely.
Will there be masks available for the campus community?
Surgical masks are available for faculty, staff and students. If air quality conditions reach unhealthy levels, N95 masks and particle respirators will also be available.
Students can pick up masks from the Office of Housing and Residence Life in Smith Campus Center. Staff and faculty can pick up masks from Kenyon House.
Is Claremont under red flag warning?
The city of Claremont is under a red flag warning through Wednesday, Jan. 15 due to gusty winds and low humidity conditions in Los Angeles County. The College and partners in the Claremont Colleges consortium are monitoring the situation closely.
How are residence halls and campus buildings equipped to handle poor air quality?
Every building on Pomona’s campus has an HVAC system in place and some level of filtration. The levels range from high level filtration to minimal filtration. Even the buildings without A/C have some level of filtration. Those with the higher-level filters are going to capture more particles than those without high level filtration systems. Some building equipment can’t support high level filters.
Start of Spring Semester
Will move-in for spring semester occur as planned?
Yes, move-in will start on Jan. 18 for all returning students.
When will residence halls open?
The College’s residence halls reopen for returning students on Jan. 18.
Will classes start as planned?
Classes will start in-person as planned on Jan. 21.
What wellness resources are available for students?
Wellness resources including mental health services, physical health, and accessibility resources, among others, are available on Pomona’s website.
What resources are available for students who have been directly impacted by the fires?
Please contact your class dean for support and resources.
Travel Information
Are LA area airports impacted due to wildfires?
Los Angeles area airports are open and operating normally. Travelers should check with their airport and airline for further guidance on travel.
Emergency Information
How can I receive emergency notifications from Pomona College?
Students, faculty and staff, please ensure your cell phone number is up-to-date in Everbridge so you can receive emergency notifications from the College when needed.
What happens to campus in the event of an emergency?
At all times, the College’s highest priority is the safety and well-being of students, faculty and staff. Pomona has extensive emergency preparedness plans in place in case of evacuation or other emergency situations. The College has MOUs with transportation companies in case members of our campus community need to evacuate campus.
Where can I see the latest emergency information for Pomona College?
Visit Pomona’s emergency webpage for the latest updates.
Where can I get up-to-date information regarding conditions in the city of Claremont and Los Angeles County?
City of Claremont
- City of Claremont Website
- City of ClaremontHigh Winds Information
- City of Claremont Instagram
- City of Claremont Twitter/X
Claremont Police
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County Fire
Employee Resources
What resources are available to employees?
A reminder to all employees, that our Employee Assistance Program is a valuable resource for those who are looking for support for mental and physical health: OPTUM. Access code: Claremontcolleges
What resources are available for faculty and staff who have been directly impacted by the wildfires?
Please contact Alejandra Gaytan in the Office of Human Resources for support and a full list of resources available.
How is the College supporting employees affected by the fires?
The College continues to focus support efforts on what is most needed for our impacted staff and faculty. So far that has included housing support, time-off flexibility, and partnering with Staff Council to provide supplies in need. Support efforts will continue and expand to help address the ongoing challenge of this extraordinary situation.
How can I help those who have suffered losses in the wildfires?
Pomona College’s Staff Council and Office of Human Resources are collecting items to donate to Pomona employees affected by the wildfires. Contact Staff Council for information on items needed and drop off locations.